Pennisetum 'Rubrum' (Annual)

Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum': A Whisper of Crimson Splendor

Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum', known as Purple Fountain Grass, swathes the garden in a whisper of crimson splendor, its burgundy leaves and feathery, rose-tinted plumes creating an aura of mystery and allure. This ornamental grass, with its cascading growth and vibrant hues, infuses the landscape with a sense of warmth and exotic elegance, transforming any outdoor space into a realm of visual poetry. 'Rubrum', celebrated for its striking coloration and fluid form, serves as a testament to the captivating beauty of ornamental grasses, offering a stunning visual display that complements the garden with its dramatic, natural elegance.

Product Characteristics:

• Height: 'Rubrum' reaches an elegant height of 120-150 cm, with its plumes arching gracefully, creating a visual interest that is both commanding and captivating.
• Spread: It forms a lush, spreading mound with a spread of approximately 60-90 cm, providing a rich tapestry of texture and color that enhances the landscape's vibrancy and depth.
• Foliage Colour: The foliage is a deep burgundy, offering a dramatic backdrop that accentuates the striking beauty of its blooms and adds a luxurious vitality to the garden's palette.
• Flower Colour: Its blooms are a soft, rose-tinted hue, appearing in mid-summer and lasting through the fall, adding a layer of ethereal elegance atop the bold foliage.
• Flowering Period: The bloom period extends from mid-summer into early autumn, offering a spectacular flourish that captivates and enchants throughout the seasons.
• Sunlight Requirements: Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum' thrives in full sun, where its crimson hues can deepen, creating a mesmerizing display that draws the eye and ignites the imagination.
• Soil Requirements: This variety is adaptable to a broad range of soil conditions, showing particular resilience in well-drained, fertile soils, and maintaining its vigor in both dry and moist conditions.

Uses and Benefits: Beyond its aesthetic appeal, 'Rubrum' serves as an exceptional choice for adding drama, texture, and a touch of the exotic to the garden. It is perfect for creating bold borders, as a dramatic accent in mixed plantings, or in containers where its striking form and color can be fully appreciated. Beyond its ornamental value, 'Rubrum' plays a vital role in the garden ecosystem, providing habitat and food for wildlife.

Companion Plants: Pair Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum' with plants that complement its bold form and rich color palette. The bright yellows of Coreopsis or the soothing blues of Agapanthus create stunning visual contrasts, while the architectural forms of Sedum or the delicate fronds of Ferns provide a backdrop that accentuates its majestic beauty.

Care Instructions: To ensure the vibrant display and healthy growth of 'Rubrum', plant in a location that meets its sunlight and soil preferences. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, it becomes somewhat drought-tolerant, requiring minimal care. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

History: A striking selection from the species Pennisetum setaceum, native to Africa and the Middle East, 'Rubrum' has captivated gardeners with its luxurious color, texture, and adaptability. Its introduction has underscored the growing desire for ornamental grasses that offer both aesthetic drama and ecological benefits, bridging the gap between bold garden design and natural conservation.

Final Thoughts: Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum' is a celebration of color and movement, bringing a whisper of crimson splendor and exotic allure to the garden. Its deep burgundy foliage and rose-tinted plumes make it a focal point of dramatic beauty, inviting gardeners and onlookers to lose themselves in the mesmerizing presence and captivating elegance of ornamental grasses. For those seeking to add a touch of drama and a splash of luxurious color to their landscapes, 'Rubrum' offers a blend of aesthetic appeal, ecological value, and ease of care that is truly unparalleled, ensuring the garden remains a place of fascination and inspiration throughout the year.